New gadgets and gimmicks to keep us watching sport live on TV
TV networks are investing in new gadgets, camera angles and social media devices to keep viewers hooked on live sport. In this cross-posting from The Conversation Marc C-Scott of Victoria University looks at what’s coming next.
Australia’s love of sport appears to be more from in front of a TV screen than actually attending any event live, and that could be on the increase given some of the new technology heading our way.
Samsung has confirmed that its new Sports Live app – on display at this year’s Consumer Electronic Show in the US – will be available in Australia later this year, but for which sport codes has still to be announced.
The app is part of its smart television range and provides on-screen information – over and above that normally provided onscreen by the host broadcaster – relative to the particular sporting event being viewed.
I suspect they might get a few more watching their expensive sport content if they simply broadcast it in HD…..
So why are we not attending the games more?
I’d be putting ticket prices way at the top of the list. Take the BBL final tomorrow at that sports mecca – Manuka Oval. General Admission for a family of four (the cheapest tickets available) is $55.05. In either of the fan sections it is $97.87. If you want Gold it is $174.33.
Then of course there is the parking costs, plus the inflated food and drink prices.
So free for a family of four (maybe throw in a pizza delivery) speaks way louder than technology in my book.
I agree with I wonder re. HD broadcasts.
I’m still amazed by the quality of Fox Sports HD coverage – feels like you can see every blade of grass! Compare the FS coverage last night to ABC and it’s embarrasing.
The extra camera angles and visual graphics in Seven’s coverage of the Aussie Open seem to just be an excuse to shoehorn another sponsor into their inlive coverage.
As far as ticket prices go, $55.05 to a BBL final for a family of four seems amazing value. My UK Football team charge 35 GBP for an adult to regular season games – and they’re in the 2nd tier of English football.